BRADENTON, FL — February 10th —Officials from the West Manatee Fire and Rescue District were acknowledged at a Manatee County Commission meeting after receiving awards from the Florida Fire Chiefs Association.

Deputy Chief Johnson was selected Executive Fire Officer of the Year, Fire Marshal Kwiatkowski won Fire Marshal of the Year, and Lt. Fire Inspector Adkins was named Fire Inspector of the Year.

According to department leaders, the awards recognize the awardees' commitment to fire prevention, leadership, and community involvement. The accolade recognizes their continued efforts to improve fire safety programs, inspections, and operational leadership throughout the district. Officials congratulated the Manatee County Commission and the Florida Fire Chiefs' Association for recognizing the department's employees' accomplishments.